President William Ruto’s Official Visit to Rome
President William Ruto has embarked on an official visit to Rome, with the primary objective of securing key infrastructure and investment deals between Kenya and Italy. This diplomatic mission is aimed at strengthening bilateral relations and exploring new opportunities for collaboration between the two nations.
During his stay in Rome, President Ruto is scheduled to hold bilateral talks with Italian President Sergio Mattarella and Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni. These discussions are expected to focus on deepening the existing ties between Kenya and Italy, as well as identifying areas where both countries can work together more closely.
The visit will also involve the signing of several memoranda of understanding and cross-sector agreements. These agreements are anticipated to cover a wide range of areas, including agriculture, energy, and infrastructure development. The goal is to foster a more robust and sustainable partnership between the two nations.
In a statement, State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed highlighted that a key focus of the trip is the acceleration of the Arror, Kimwarer, and Itare dam projects. These projects have been identified as critical components of Kenya’s irrigation agenda. They are part of three national priority pillars: irrigation, expanded infrastructure, and accelerated energy generation. These initiatives are designed to drive Kenya’s economic transformation and improve the country’s agricultural productivity.
The Kenyan government has set a target to expand irrigation to 2.5 million acres within seven years. This initiative is expected to significantly boost food security and position Kenya as a net agricultural exporter. The expansion of irrigation systems will not only enhance domestic food production but also create new export opportunities for Kenyan farmers.
While in Rome, President Ruto will attend the Kenya-Italy Business Forum, where he is expected to showcase investment opportunities in infrastructure, irrigation, and energy. He will also engage with business leaders and multilateral institutions, including the International Fund for Agricultural Development (IFAD) and the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO). These interactions are intended to promote greater private sector involvement in Kenya’s development agenda.
The visit is also expected to advance cooperation under Italy’s Mattei Plan, which focuses on strengthening partnerships in agriculture, agro-industry, value chain development, health, clean energy, and human capital development. This initiative aligns with Kenya’s broader goals of fostering sustainable growth and improving the quality of life for its citizens.
Hussein Mohamed emphasized that the trip underscores Kenya’s commitment to deepening international partnerships that support its development agenda. By engaging with key stakeholders in Italy, Kenya aims to attract foreign investment and build stronger economic ties with European partners.
During a four-day trip to Kisii and Nyamira Counties last week, President Ruto announced that part of his mission to Italy will be negotiating a Sh1 billion funding for the upgrade of Nyamira County Hospital. This initiative reflects the government’s focus on improving healthcare infrastructure across the country.
While in Italy, Ruto is expected to lay a wreath at the tomb of the unknown soldier at Piazza Venezia tomorrow before meeting his host, Mattarella, at Quirinale Palace for a luncheon. He will later meet with Prime Minister Meloni at Palazzo Chigi.
On the second day of his visit, the head of state will address the high-level session of the Kenya-Italy Business Forum and end his day with an address to Kenyans in the Diaspora. This engagement is intended to strengthen the connection between the Kenyan government and its citizens living abroad.
On the third day, Ruto will meet industry CEOs, including Claudio Descalzi of ENI and Alvaro Lario, who is the President of IFAD. He will also visit the Chamber of Deputies of the Italian Parliament, where he will meet with the Speaker of Parliament, Lorenzo Fontana.
Ruto will also grace the “Growing Together Through Partnership” event by Harmonica Innovation Group at Palazzo Generali and conclude his visit with an address at LUISS University.
